By: Bo Kidd
Williamsburg, KY – The Patriots Football team continued their run on the good side of the scoreboard last Thursday as they defeated Webber International handily by a final of 45-14. Now 2-0 on the young season, UC welcomes one of its biggest rivalries in Union College in the Battle for the Brass Lantern. The Patriots look to stay unbeaten while the Bulldogs are still looking for win number one with this being the fifth try. Kickoff is set for 7 pm in Williamsburg at James H. Taylor, II Stadium. Here are six things to watch for in this rivalry matchup.
- History speaks for itself.
This will be the 35
th straight season that Cumberlands and Union have locked it up on the gridiron. The Patriots hold a 23-11 series advantage entering the game, including ten of the last 13, but when it comes to a rivalry game, throw records out the window. This contest gives you more than just another W in the win column. This gives you the bragging rights for another season that the coveted Brass Lantern trophy stays at your respective school for another year.
- Cool down the dynamic duo.
If you are Cumberlands, you cannot overlook the tandem that continues to connect between quarterback Kendrick Furness and wide receiver Earl Wells. This season, Wells has pulled in nearly 1/3 of Union's completions, over 1/3 of their passing yards, and 75% of their touchdown passes (6). Keep them in check and you will be doing yourself a major favor.
- Force the turnovers.
Cumberlands had done a great job this year being on the plus side of the turnover margin. Currently at +2, UC has done its share this season, but to be successful in this one, you may need to have that double by next week. On the other hand, Union has struggled to hang on to the ball, throwing eight interceptions and losing a multitude of fumbles. At -8, the Bulldogs have to do everything possible to secure the ball.
- Get on the scoreboard early.
The team that comes out and sets the tone early on the scoreboard should definitely have an advantage in the game in the final 30 minutes of play. Ironically, the winning team in the series has scored 14 or less points in the first half eight times in the last 13 contests. Last season was a rarity, but one you love to see if you are a Patriot fan. Although they trailed 7-0 after Union's opening drive, the Patriots would run off 67 straight points to earn the largest win in rivalry history.
- Control your emotions.
Games like this bring out the best and sometimes the worst in athletes. It will be another game where tempers will flare and the emotions of the players will be on an epic rollercoaster ride. UC must keep their composure during the game and not rack up penalty yardage, especially those of the 15-yard variety such as personal fouls and unsportsmanlike conducts, as these will prove to be most detrimental in possibly a key point in the game
- It's Cumberlands vs. Union.
That should be enough to get anyone that enjoys NAIA football pumped up for the game. This is one of the longest tenured rivalries in the country. This is for bragging rights. This is for pride. This is the Battle for the Brass Lantern.
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